Abstract

The Tension Control Optimization Theory, TCOT, allows for heavy duty truck and bus tires with greater bead and belt durability and increased fuel efficiency than conventionally shaped truck and bus tires, without sacrificing other important performance characteristics such as maneuverability, wear resistance, etc.

Before TCOT, conventional truck and bus tires used the theory of the natural equilibrium shape as a base. TCOT technology expands the Rolling Contour Optimization Theory, RCOT, and proposes the ultimate tire casing contour according to tire application.

TCOT optimizes the control of the tension in an inflated tire and the control of the change of the contour by inflation pressure, and regulates strains in the belts and plycord edges, limiting the occurrence and spread of minute but potentially damaging cracks in the vulnerable edges of a rolling tire.